30/07/2026
Press Release – JMG Info-Series No. 01-2026
JMG Info-Series No. 01-2026 Strengthens Industry Readiness for the Implementation of the 2026 DMW Seabased Rules and Regulations and the Standard Employment Contract for Seafarers
The Joint Manning Group (JMG), in coordination with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), successfully conducted JMG Info-Series No. 01-2026: Understanding the 2026 DMW Seabased Rules and Regulations and the Standard Employment Contract (SEC) for Seafarers on 24 July 2026 at the Ballroom, Sheraton Manila Hotel, Newport World Resorts, Pasay City, bringing together approximately 300 representatives from licensed manning agencies (LMAs), maritime organizations, and industry stakeholders.
The Info-Series forms part of JMG's continuing commitment to equip its member agencies and industry partners with timely and accurate guidance on significant regulatory developments affecting the Philippine maritime sector. By providing a venue for dialogue between government regulators and industry stakeholders, the activity aimed to promote a common understanding of the newly issued DMW Seabased Rules and Regulations and the revised Standard Employment Contract for Seafarers, paving the way for their effective and consistent implementation.
In his message, DMW Undersecretary for Adjudication Services and Regional Operations, Atty. Bernard P. Olalia emphasized that the activity reflects the Department's continuing efforts to uphold the rights and welfare of Filipino seafarers while ensuring that industry stakeholders remain well-informed of policy developments governing overseas maritime employment. He underscored that a clear and consistent understanding of the new regulatory framework is essential in facilitating compliance and supporting its successful implementation across the maritime industry.
JMG Chairman Mr. Marlon R. Roño, in his welcome remarks, emphasized that the 2026 DMW Seabased Rules and Regulations and the revised SEC for Seafarers are the culmination of extensive consultations, technical discussions, and collaborative efforts among government agencies, the labor sector, and the employers' group, including the Joint Manning Group. He underscored that this tripartite approach reflects the industry's shared commitment to developing a regulatory framework that is fair, practical, and responsive to the evolving needs of Filipino seafarers and the maritime sector.
The technical sessions featured comprehensive discussions led by Atty. Janine T. Tutanes of the DMW Legal Service, who presented the salient provisions of the 2026 DMW Seabased Rules and Regulations, and Atty. Albert Ranier Valenciano, who discussed the revised Standard Employment Contract for Seafarers, highlighting its key provisions and implementation guidelines.
An interactive open forum followed the presentations, providing participants with the opportunity to raise questions and seek clarification on the practical application of the new rules and contractual provisions. The panelists for the morning session open forum include Assistant Secretary Julyn S. Ambito-Fermin, Director and OIC-Assistant Secretary Augusto B. San Diego III, Director Liza C. Alcera, and Director Marieta S. Labong-Dela Cruz, who addressed concerns from licensed manning agencies and other maritime stakeholders.
The afternoon open forum featured Director and OIC-Assistant Secretary Augusto B. San Diego III, Atty. Alexander F. Ragonjan of the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP), and Atty. Herbert A. Tria, representing the JMG as panelists.
The discussions enabled participants to gain a deeper understanding of the new regulatory framework, allowing licensed manning agencies to begin aligning their internal policies, employment practices, documentation, and operational procedures with the updated DMW requirements. The exchange of insights also reinforced the strong collaboration between the government and the maritime industry in ensuring regulatory compliance while maintaining the competitiveness of Filipino seafarers in the global labor market.
The program concluded with closing remarks delivered by Mr. Michael J. Estaniel, JMG Director, who expressed the JMG's appreciation to the Department of Migrant Workers, resource speakers, panelists, and participants for their active engagement and shared commitment to the successful implementation of the new regulatory framework. The event was hosted and moderated by Ms. Josephine J. Francisco, JMG Director, who guided the day's proceedings and facilitated the discussions.
Through initiatives such as the JMG Info-Series, the Joint Manning Group reaffirms its commitment to serving as a bridge between regulators and the manning industry by providing platforms for policy discussions, knowledge sharing, and stakeholder engagement. JMG will continue working closely with the Department of Migrant Workers and its member associations to support the smooth implementation of the 2026 DMW Seabased Rules and Regulations and the Standard Employment Contract for Seafarers.
